Grandma to the rescue

This past week I have been to hell and back. Starting from the ill fated last weekend when Iman fell terribly sick. As if the guilt of leaving her behind wasn't enough... I had to leave her behind when she was sick!

This time around we had a really bad spell! Through the weekend Iman had a very high fever, and we spent 3 sleepless nights sponging her temperature down. The first night I slept 4 hours, the next night it was 3 and then the night before my first day at work, it was 2 hours. I spent my first day totally absorbed in my guilt, and on my drive home I kept telling myself that I would quit, because this isn't what I want for my child.

That night Iman had a fever of 103 F, and I still went to work the next day.

Luckily, my parents are incredibly accomodating, and when I called to tell them that Iman was unwell and I couldn't settle into work, my dad immediately booked my mom on the evening flight and sent her to our rescue!

Since then things have eased out. My mom keeps Iman with her at home and gives her all the love and attention she wants. She feeds her well, plays with her, teaches her, reads to her and most of all... gives her hugs when she wants them. All that aside, she also cleans up the house and has lunch on the table for me when I come home and dinner cooking on the stove. Having her here has really made a difference in my life. When she isn't busy taking care of the house and Iman, she sits with me and gives me strength and courage that I am lacking as I start this new phase in my life. She assures me that in time Iman will settle down, and this is something I need to do for myself. She reminds me of all the good reasons for taking this job and pacifies my fears.

And when the long day comes to an end and I put Iman down for the night, my mom hugs me and kisses me and tells me to get some rest because I have a long day ahead. And at that moment, I have a heartwarming feeling that no matter how many years we may have behind us, she will always be my mommy and I will always be her baby.

Thank you mom, not just for taking care of Iman, but also taking care of me. I love you.